Ephesians 6:10–24 (NKJV)
10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Ephesians 6:10-20
14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints—19 and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
Paul offers his final instruction on practical Christian living in this passage by addressing the procedure for spiritual warfare. He begins with the need for spiritual strength and power. This power comes from living in the Lord, having an intimate relationship with the Savior. Paul then moves into a discussion of the armor of God. He lists the elements of spiritual armor that are essential for fighting off the attacks of the enemy. Just before opening the list, Paul then identifies the enemy in spiritual warfare. He corrects the unrealistic notion of spiritual warfare being against other humans. In actuality, the war is against the forces of evil in the spiritual realm. There seems to be an entire ranking system of spiritual forces, including powers, principalities, rulers of the age, spiritual hosts of wickedness. He then revisits the armor of God, encouraging the Christian to stand after having done all that is commanded by God.
Paul then begins to describe the pieces of the armor of God. The girdle of truth guards the inner part of man with a clear understanding of the truth. Truth keeps the inner man from chasing after lies and sinful things. The breastplate of righteousness guards the heart from duplicity and divided loyalties by covering it with righteous fidelity and loyalty to God and His truth. The preparation of the gospel of peace guard the tender underside of man’s feet from danger, and makes the feet beautiful (how beautiful are the feet of them who bring good news). The shield of faith wards off the fear and doubt that comes from the attacks of the enemy. The helmet of salvation guards the mind from the tempting thoughts of sinful satisfaction. The only offensive weapon is the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. Knowing and wielding the word of God makes one able to fight back against the enemy with the Word. Our example of spiritual swordsmanship is Jesus as He battled the devil during His temptation after forty days of fasting in the wilderness (it is written). He instructs the Christians to pray, to be watchful, and to persevere, seeking God for Paul as well.
21 But that you also may know my affairs and how I am doing, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make all things known to you; 22 whom I have sent to you for this very purpose, that you may know our affairs, and that he may comfort your hearts.
Ephesians 6:21-24
23 Peace to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.
Paul ends his letter with a somewhat generic greeting, only naming Tychicus in the farewell, another hint that this was meant to be a circular or cyclical letter, making the rounds among all the churches. Peace, love, and grace are extended to all who read, and Paul signs the letter with an Amen. This great document, offering theology and practical instruction on Christian living, is a powerfully inspired tool that would serve the church, even until today.
Devoted To You 